Efficacy Of Treatment Research Articles

Vascular endothelial growth factor pathway’s influence on bevacizumab efficacy in metastatic colorectal cancer treatment

Vascular endothelial growth factor pathway’s influence on bevacizumab efficacy in metastatic colorectal cancer treatment

Prospective randomised study comparing concomitant chemoradiotherapy using weekly paclitaxel versus weekly cisplatin in locally advanced carcinoma cervix (FIGO STAGE IB2 – IVA) in a tertiary care hospital

Concomitant chemoradiation(CRT) with weekly Cisplatin is presently the treatment of choice for locally advanced cases of carcinoma cervix. Despite it’s proven benefit in reducing disease recurrence by as much as 50%, our search is on for further improvement of treatment efficacy. This trial was done for comparing the response and toxicity of CRT with weekly Paclitaxel versus weekly Cisplatin in carcinoma cervix with locally advanced staging. Biopsy proven cases of squamous cell Ca stage IB2 to IVA were randomized into two arms (1:1 ratio). Arm A- patients received concomitant weekly cisplatin(40mg/m2)for 5 weeks during external radiation. For arm B-patients received weekly paclitaxel(60mg/m2) for 5 weeks concomitantly. EBRT dose of 50.4 Gy in 28 #was given alongwith followed by brachytherapy. Institutional and ethical clearance was obtained. Paclitaxel, when given concurrently with EBRT in cases of carcinoma cervix with locally advanced staging produces comparable response to that of cisplatin.

GLIOMA-RELATED EPILEPSY

Diffuse low-grade gliomas (LGGs), originating from glial tissue, have a propensity to progress to higher-grade tumors over time, presenting a complex challenge in clinical management. Glioma-associated epilepsy is a significant clinical indicator influencing both treatment strategies and prognostication. This study aims to assess the impact of glioma-related epilepsy on treatment outcomes and explore the current management guidelines. Material and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 38 patients diagnosed with LGGs (WHO grades 2 and 3) treated in our neurosurgical department from 2013 to 2023. The focus was on glioma-related epileptic seizures, with outcomes evaluated using the Engel classification six months post-surgery. Additionally, anti-seizure medication (ASM) regimens were reviewed, and current National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on low-grade gliomas were synthesized. Results Of the 38 patients, 30 had diffuse astrocytoma and 8 had oligodendroglioma. Among those with glioma-related epilepsy (n=25), management strategies included biopsy only (8%), gross total resection (GTR) (40%), subtotal resection (StR) (32%), and partial resection (PaR) (20%). No significant correlation was found between seizures and tumor volume, growth rate, or histological findings. However, a positive correlation between the extent of surgical resection and improved Engel outcomes was observed. Discussion Existing research suggests that early seizures may be a favorable prognostic indicator for malignant progression-free and overall survival. Epilepsy significantly impacts the quality of life for glioma patients. Exploring targeted epilepsy surgery for glioma-related seizures could potentially enhance patient outcomes and quality of life posttreatment. Conclusion Advancing approaches in epilepsy surgery for glioma-related seizures holds promise for improving patient quality of life and treatment efficacy. Further investigation into these strategies is warranted.

Effectiveness and Personalized Approaches in the Correction of Gummy Smile: A Systematic Review of Orthodontic and Surgical Treatments

Background/Objectives: This systematic review seeks to assess the effectiveness of different orthodontic and combined orthodontic–surgical approaches for correcting gummy smile, with a focus on treatment efficacy, duration, and the potential for integrating various techniques. The objective is to offer evidence-based recommendations for the optimal management of gummy smile. Methods: A thorough search of the literature was conducted in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, covering publications from 1 January 1982 to 4 November 2024. Only randomized controlled trials involving adult human subjects with available full-text articles were included, while systematic reviews, editorials, case reports, and studies involving animals or in vitro experiments were excluded. Studies were selected based on their relevance to orthodontic or combined orthodontic–surgical treatments for correcting excessive gingival display (gummy smile), particularly in cases where residual growth does not impact treatment outcomes. The primary focus was on evaluating the efficacy of these interventions in improving smile aesthetics. Follow-up data were considered when available, though not required for inclusion. Results: The findings revealed that both orthodontic and surgical methods are effective in reducing gingival display. Orthognathic surgery offers lasting outcomes, particularly for patients with vertical maxillary excess, whereas orthodontic treatments, including the use of skeletal anchorage devices, are particularly effective for less severe cases. Minimally invasive approaches, such as botulinum toxin injections, provided temporary but promising results for patients reluctant to undergo surgery. Conclusions: Orthodontic and surgical techniques are viable options for treating gummy smile, with treatment choices depending on the condition’s severity. Future research, particularly long-term randomized studies, is required to further refine treatment protocols and improve patient outcomes.

Salmonella Infantis Adhesion to Various Surfaces and In Vitro Antimicrobial Efficacy of Commercial Disinfectants

Salmonella Infantis poses a significant challenge in poultry production due to its persistence and resistance to disinfectants. This study investigated the survival of the S. Infantis strain on different surfaces and evaluated the efficacy of disinfectants in both preventing and treating biofilms. The survival of the tested S. Infantis strain was assessed on plastic and stainless steel surfaces after 24 and 48 h. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of five disinfectants were determined, and their antiadhesion effectiveness was evaluated using crystal violet. The efficacy of biofilm treatment was evaluated by cell culturability. The results showed that the adhesion of S. Infantis was significantly higher on the plastic surface. The disinfectants were effective at reducing biofilm formation only within the first 24 h. Fresh solutions of disinfectants based on quaternary ammonium compounds exhibited the highest antimicrobial efficacy, while chlorocresol was the most effective for both the prevention and treatment of biofilms. The study results suggest that the presence of plastic surfaces may contribute to the dissemination of Salmonella. Additionally, the effectiveness of disinfectants varied based on storage conditions and contact time, while biofilms demonstrated reduced susceptibility compared to planktonic cells. However, given the laboratory scale of this study, further validation on a commercial scale is necessary to confirm these findings.

Abstract A025: RNA-Based Therapeutics to target the p53 pathway in high-grade serous ovarian cancer: TAp63-Regulated Oncogenic LncRNAs (TROLLs) as novel therapeutic targets in cancer

Abstract High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most common and malignant type of ovarian cancer with a high frequency of p53 mutation and hyperactivation of the AKT pathway. Even though roughly 85% of patients achieve remission after initial surgical debulking and chemotherapy, four out of five HGSOC patients will experience disease recurrence, resulting in a 5-year survival rate of 43%. We have identified and characterized two TAp63 Regulated Oncogenic Long non-coding RNAs (TROLL-2 and TROLL-3) whose transcription is induced by mutant p53 and high expression level correlate with a more aggressive ovarian cancer grade and phosphorylation of AKT. In-depth analysis demonstrated that TROLL-2 and TROLL-3 directly activate AKT in tumor cells, thus linking p53 alterations to AKT activity. The use of AKT inhibitors in the clinic is limited because of frequent adverse effects, likely due to the constitutive expression of AKT in all cells. TROLL-2 and TROLL-3 expression is limited to tumor cells and provides a more specific target for decreasing AKT activation, potentially minimizing off-target effects. We have optimized reduction of TROLL-2 and TROLL-3 expression using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) in an ex vivo perfusion platform for 3D culture of microtumors from primary patient derived tumors. Samples show maximum reduction of proliferation (EdU) and phosphorylation of AKT when TROLL-2 and TROLL-3 ASOs are used concurrently. We also performed phospho-proteomics and single cell RNAseq to compare individual ASO-mediated knockdown of each lncRNA to combined targeted ASO treatments. We have developed primary patient derived xenograft models using ovarian tumors orthotopically implanted into NSG mice generating a relevant preclinical model to determine the efficacy of ASO treatment. To reduce the rapid degradation and clearance of ASOs in circulation, ASOs were encapsulated into lipid nanoparticles and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and we are currently testing these in vivo. Since AKT activation is associated with increased staging and resistance to platinum and targeted therapies in ovarian cancer patients, our data provides preclinical rationale for the implementation of ASOs and the use of new delivery methods as a relevant translational therapy and novel method to exploit the specificity of TROLL-2 and TROLL-3 expression in HGSOC. Citation Format: Ashley Lui, Marco Napoli, Jaden R Baldwin, Christina L Carr, Angie Rivera, Duy Nguyen, W. Gregory Sawyer, Michael R Dunne, Erin George, Omar K Farha, Michelle Teplensky, Elsa R Flores. RNA-Based Therapeutics to target the p53 pathway in high-grade serous ovarian cancer: TAp63-Regulated Oncogenic LncRNAs (TROLLs) as novel therapeutic targets in cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: RNAs as Drivers, Targets, and Therapeutics in Cancer; 2024 Nov 14-17; Bellevue, Washington. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2024;23(11_Suppl):Abstract nr A025.

Metabolic Reprogramming of Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment

Metabolic reprogramming of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a pivotal role in shaping tumor progression and responses to therapy. The intricate interplay between tumor cells and immune cells within this ecosystem influences their metabolic landscapes, thereby modulating the immune evasion tactics employed by tumors and the efficacy of immunotherapeutic interventions. This review delves into the metabolic reprogramming that occurs in tumor cells and a spectrum of immune cells, including T cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), within the TME. The metabolic shifts in these cell types span alterations in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism. Such metabolic reconfigurations can profoundly influence immune cell function and the mechanisms by which tumors evade immune surveillance. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the metabolic reprogramming of immune cells in the TME is essential for devising novel cancer therapeutic strategies. By targeting the metabolic states of immune cells, it is possible to augment their anti-tumor activities, presenting new opportunities for immunotherapeutic approaches. These strategies hold promise for enhancing treatment outcomes and circumventing the emergence of drug resistance.

Impact of Gut Microbiome Interventions on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Metabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a key player in metabolic health, influencing glucose and lipid metabolism through various mechanisms. However, the efficacy of gut microbiota-targeted interventions, such as probiotics, prebiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and diet-based treatments, remains unclear for specific metabolic outcomes. In this study, the aim was to evaluate the impact of these interventions on the glucose and lipid parameters in individuals with metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis included 41 randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of gut microbiota-targeted treatments on metabolic parameters such as fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides. A comprehensive search was conducted using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, focusing on interventions targeting the gut microbiota. A meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models, with effect sizes calculated for each outcome. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results: Gut microbiota-targeted interventions significantly reduced fasting glucose, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides, with moderate heterogeneity observed across studies. The interventions also led to modest increases in HDL-C levels. Probiotic and synbiotic interventions showed the most consistent benefits in improving both glucose and lipid profiles, while FMT yielded mixed results. Short-term interventions showed rapid microbial shifts but less pronounced metabolic improvements, whereas longer-term interventions had more substantial metabolic benefits. Conclusions: In this study, it is demonstrated that gut microbiota-targeted interventions can improve key metabolic outcomes, offering a potential therapeutic strategy for managing metabolic diseases. However, the effectiveness of these interventions varies depending on the type, duration, and population characteristics, highlighting the need for further long-term studies to assess the sustained effects of microbiota modulation on metabolic health.

Predictors of outcomes after gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy for refractory gastroparesis: a systematic review

Background: Gastroparesis is a debilitating gastroduodenal disorder for which gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (GPOEM) has emerged as an efficacious treatment option. However, response to GPOEM varies between 50-80%, such that preoperative predictors of treatment success are needed to guide patient selection. Methods: We performed a systematic review to identify predictors of clinical and functional response to GPOEM among adult patients with gastroparesis (PROSPERO: CRD42023457359). MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases were searched systematically for studies reporting outcomes after GPOEM in September 2023. A narrative synthesis of predictive factors on univariable and multivariable analysis was performed with consideration of response rates via meta-analysis, and evaluation of discrimination if prognostic models were developed. ROBINS-E was used for risk of bias assessment. Results: Of 1899 articles reviewed, 30 were included. The GPOEM response rate was 63.1% (95% confidence interval 56.3%-69.5%) with most studies defining clinical success on the basis of improvement in gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (87%, 26/30). Older age, shorter duration of gastroparesis, non-diabetic etiology, lower body mass index, and response to intrapyloric botulinum toxin were associated with positive response to GPOEM on multivariable analyses. Predictors on physiological tests such as EndoFLIP or gastric emptying scintigraphy were inconsistent. No prognostic models underwent external validation. Conclusion: Currently, there are limited reproducible predictors of response to GPOEM among patients with refractory gastroparesis. Robust prospective studies investigating scalable, reproducible, and actionable biomarkers of treatment response are required.

Efficacy of Screening and Brief Intervention for Alcohol Misuse in Opioid Agonist Maintenance Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial

ABSTRACT Alcohol misuse is common in persons on opioid agonist maintenance treatment (OAMT). We tested the efficacy of screening and brief intervention (SBI) for harmful/hazardous alcohol use in buprenorphine/naloxone (BNX)-assisted OAMT. It was a double-blind, parallel-group, randomized trial, where 150 participants with alcohol misuse (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test – AUDIT 8–19) on BNX were allocated equally to receive either a single session SBI or screening and brief advice (control). Participants were followed up at three months. The primary outcome was the change in AUDIT; other outcomes were risk transition, change in the frequency of heavy drinking, days of abstinence from alcohol, Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels, non-prescription opioid use, and adherence to BNX. Follow-up data was gathered from 138 participants. SBI participants had a higher reduction in AUDIT scores at the follow-up (F = 129. 173, df = 1, p < .001, ηp 2 =.469). A higher proportion of participants transitioned to a low-risk category in the SBI group. The SBI group showed a higher reduction in heavy drinking and days of alcohol abstinence. Although the proportion of persons with normal serum GGT increased in both groups, the difference was not significant at the follow-up. The SBI group performed better in non-prescription opioid use and BNX adherence.

Cationic Metal‐Organic Layer Delivers siRNAs to Overcome Radioresistance and Potentiate Cancer Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy plays an important role in modern oncology, but its treatment efficacy is limited by the radioresistance of tumor cells. As a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, survivin plays a key role in developing radioresistance by mediating apoptosis evasion, promoting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and modulating cell cycle dynamics. Efficient downregulation of survivin expression presents a promising strategy to enhance the antitumor effects of radiotherapy. Herein, we report the design of a hafnium‐porphyrin‐based cationic metal‐organic layer (CMOL) with quaternary ammonium capping groups to deliver small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) for enhanced radiotherapy. The CMOL@siRNA nanoplatform not only increased energy deposition from X‐rays and reactive oxygen species generation via a unique radiotherapy‐radiodynamic therapy process, but also effectively delivered siRNAs to downregulate survivin expression and ameliorate radioresistance of cancer cells. Consequently, CMOL@siRNA in combination with low‐dose X‐ray irradiation demonstrated remarkable antitumor efficacy with 96.9% and 91.4% tumor growth inhibition in murine colorectal carcinoma and triple‐negative breast cancer models, respectively.

HPB SO75 - Burden and Pattern of Gallstone-Related Acute Surgical Admissions

Abstract Background Gallstone disease accounts for nearly one-third of emergency general surgery admissions, with a considerable number resulting from recurrent episodes. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the only definitive treatment for gallstones. This study aimed to examine the burden and patterns of acute biliary admissions. Method This prospective cohort study was conducted over a continuous 12-week period in 2022 within a single surgical unit, focusing on all gallstone-related admissions. The total number of admissions for various surgical pathologies was documented, and the proportion due to biliary disease was determined. The analysis encompassed patient demographics, reasons for biliary admission, prior gallstone history, and any planned laparoscopic cholecystectomies (LC). Results There were 532 acute admissions, 98 (18.4%) were gallstones related. Median age was 62 years (IQR 47-72) and 58 (59.2%) were female. 40 (40.8%) had acute cholecystitis, 24 (24.5%) had gallstone pancreatitis, 16 (16.3%) had bile duct stones, 10 (10.2%) had biliary colic and 8 (8.2%) had ascending cholangitis. 43 (43.9%) patients were known to have gallstones and 26 (26.5%) patients had prior admission related to gallstones. 35.7% patients had outpatient LC, 23.5% had no documentation, 19.4% had inpatient LC, 18.4% were not fit candidates and 3.1% patients declined LC. Median total length of stay was 6 days (IQR 4-11). Conclusion In our study, the rate of biliary-related admissions was lower than previously reported in the literature. This reduction may be attributed to our semi-aggressive management approach for gallstone disease. To further improve patient outcomes, we suggest implementing more aggressive management strategies for gallstones during the initial admission for patients who are deemed fit for surgery. Such an approach could potentially reduce the recurrence of biliary admissions and enhance overall treatment efficacy.

Cationic Metal‐Organic Layer Delivers siRNAs to Overcome Radioresistance and Potentiate Cancer Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy plays an important role in modern oncology, but its treatment efficacy is limited by the radioresistance of tumor cells. As a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, survivin plays a key role in developing radioresistance by mediating apoptosis evasion, promoting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, and modulating cell cycle dynamics. Efficient downregulation of survivin expression presents a promising strategy to enhance the antitumor effects of radiotherapy. Herein, we report the design of a hafnium‐porphyrin‐based cationic metal‐organic layer (CMOL) with quaternary ammonium capping groups to deliver small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) for enhanced radiotherapy. The CMOL@siRNA nanoplatform not only increased energy deposition from X‐rays and reactive oxygen species generation via a unique radiotherapy‐radiodynamic therapy process, but also effectively delivered siRNAs to downregulate survivin expression and ameliorate radioresistance of cancer cells. Consequently, CMOL@siRNA in combination with low‐dose X‐ray irradiation demonstrated remarkable antitumor efficacy with 96.9% and 91.4% tumor growth inhibition in murine colorectal carcinoma and triple‐negative breast cancer models, respectively.

Abstract B033: Towards magnetic resonance microscopy for liquid biopsy in cancer therapy monitoring

Abstract The advancement of liquid biopsy techniques promises to revolutionize cancer diagnostics and therapy monitoring, by offering a minimally invasive approach to track tumor progression and treatment efficacy. One central issue preventing advancements are innovations in sensor technology, necessary to enable the detection of molecular and cellular biomarkers with sufficient precision. Over the past decade, atomic-scale quantum sensors have emerged as powerful detectors, offering the ability to perform precise measurements of temperature, pressure, and magnetic fields on the single cell scale. These sensors, based on the interaction of spin qubits with their environment, have the unique capability to amplify and exploit environmental interactions for highly accurate detection, making them ideal for complex biological applications. In this context, we present an advanced quantum sensing platform specifically tailored for liquid biopsy applications in cancer therapy monitoring. This platform integrates the capabilities of optical microscopy with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, utilizing nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond as quantum sensors by converting magnetic resonance signals into optical signals, which are subsequently captured by a high-speed camera. Our platform offers a novel approach, promising quantitative analysis of single cancer cells from liquid samples with unprecedented accuracy. Unlike traditional MRI, our method captures signals over a wide field of view directly in real space. Each camera pixel records a magnetic resonance spectrum, providing detailed multicomponent information about the sample, such as molecular concentration, diffusion, and relaxation behavior, which are critical for understanding the tumor’s microenvironment. Our quantum sensing technology holds significant potential for enhancing the sensitivity of liquid biopsies. By capturing detailed molecular information from blood or other body fluids, it will enable in-depth analysis of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), exosomes, and other biomarkers. Citation Format: Karl D. Briegel, Robin D. Allert, Dominik B. Bucher, Julia D. Draeger, Nick R v. Grafenstein, Linyan Nie. Towards magnetic resonance microscopy for liquid biopsy in cancer therapy monitoring [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr B033.

Prognostic factors in clear cell sarcoma: an analysis of soft tissue sarcoma in 43 cases

Abstract Purpose Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) of tendons and aponeuroses and CCS-like malignant gastrointestinal neuroectodermal tumor/sarcoma (GINET) are characterized by frequent local and distant relapses, alongside with low efficacy of all systemic treatments. We aimed to collect a comprehensive dataset to identify prognostic factors and treatment outcomes. Methods We performed a retrospective single center analysis for diagnosed CCS and GINET on demographic, tumor, treatment and survival data. Results We identified 43 patients (w:25, m:18) with a median follow-up of 35mo and a 5y-OS-rate of 42%. At diagnosis the median age was 42yrs. Median tumor size was 3.6 cm (0.3–11.1 cm), and 24/26 (94%) tissues analyzed at our institute were EWSR1::ATF1-translocation-positive. Distant extremities (incl. knee or elbow) were affected in 72.5%. Of note, 79.5% received an excisional biopsy (benign histology suspected in 30.2%) leading to frequent incomplete resection. Final R0 status correlated significantly (p = 0.017) with longer survival rates compared to R + status in localized CCS (N0M0, 5-yr OS 0% vs 64%). Radiation and systemic treatment had limited antitumor effects while isolated limb perfusion was active in some patients. 18.6% of patients showed lymphatic spread and 20.9% distant metastases. Presence of initial M + was associated with a dismal survival of 1.4 years (M +) vs 7.1 years (M0; p &lt; .001). Conclusion We here present one of the largest clinical cohorts of patients with CCS/GINET. Our data underscores the exceptional risk of metastatic disease even in small tumors. As systemic treatment and radiation showed limited efficacy, complete resection was the most important treatment option.

Global hotspots and trends in tea anti-obesity research: a bibliometric analysis from 2004 to 2024

BackgroundThe prevalence of obesity and its related ailments is on the rise, posing a substantial challenge to public health. Tea, widely enjoyed for its flavors, has shown notable potential in mitigating obesity. Yet, there remains a lack of exhaustive bibliometric studies in this domain.MethodsWe retrieved and analyzed multidimensional data concerning tea and obesity studies from January 2004 to June 2024, using the Web of Science Core Collection database. This bibliometric investigation utilized tools such as Bibliometrix, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer to gather and analyze data concerning geographical distribution, leading institutions, prolific authors, impactful journals, citation patterns, and prevalent keywords.ResultsThere has been a significant surge in publications relevant to this field within the last two decades. Notably, China, Hunan Agricultural University, and the journal Food and Function have emerged as leading contributors in terms of country, institution, and publication medium, respectively. Zhonghua Liu of Hunan Agricultural University has the distinction of most publications, whereas Joshua D. Lambert of The State University of New Jersey is the most cited author. Analyses of co-citations and frequently used keywords have identified critical focus areas within tea anti-obesity research. Current studies are primarily aimed at understanding the roles of tea components in regulating gut microbiota, boosting fat oxidation, and increasing metabolic rate. The research trajectory has progressed from preliminary mechanism studies and clinical trials to more sophisticated investigations into the mechanisms, particularly focusing on tea’s regulatory effects on gut microbiota.ConclusionThis study offers an intricate overview of the prevailing conditions, principal focus areas, and developmental trends in the research of tea’s role against obesity. It delivers a comprehensive summary and discourse on the recent progress in this field, emphasizing the study’s core findings and pivotal insights. Highlighting tea’s efficacy in obesity prevention and treatment, this study also points out the critical need for continued research in this area.

Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Radiology: Recent Insights and Advances

ABSTRACT Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) continues a critical concern in the realm of radiology, necessitating constant updates and insights to inform clinical practices. This comprehensive literature review explores the latest advancements and research trends surrounding CI-AKI, shedding light on its multifaceted complexities. By amalgamating the latest findings, this review not only enhances the current knowledge base but also acts as a guiding beacon for healthcare professionals. Ultimately, the insights presented here serve as a valuable resource, fostering continuous improvements in CI-AKI prevention, patient safety, and the overall efficacy of radiological interventions.

Effects of a Tailored Mobile Messaging Intervention for Indoor Tanning Cessation in Young Females: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract Background: Indoor tanning increases the risk of skin cancer and can become addictive. There is little research on indoor tanning cessation interventions. Methods: From 2019-2022, we conducted a clinical trial (n=265) testing a tailored mobile messaging cessation intervention in 18-30-year-old females screened for indoor tanning addiction. Participants were randomized to a control arm receiving standard risk education or a cessation intervention arm receiving tailored mobile messaging for 4 weeks. Main outcomes were indoor tanning cessation, motivation to quit, quit attempts, and indoor tanning cognitions assessed at end of treatment and 3 months later. Results: At end of treatment, intervention participants were more likely to report quitting indoor tanning (OR = 2.10, 95% CI = 0.99 - 4.44, p &amp;lt;.05), but there were no significant differences by 3 months (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 0.82 - 2.87, p = 0.17). Intervention participants who did not quit reported higher motivation to quit than control participants at the end of treatment (M = 3.40, SD = 1.72, M = 2.54, SD=1.63, p’s &amp;lt; 0.01) and 3 months (M = 3.75, SD = 1.93, M = 2.85, SD = 1.85, p’s &amp;lt; 0.01). Conclusions: Tailored mobile messaging successfully impacts indoor tanning cessation behaviors and cognitions in young adult females who meet screening criteria for tanning addiction. Impact: This trial provides preliminary support for the efficacy of a mobile cessation intervention for young adult females who meet screening for tanning addiction. Results indicate additional intervention features should be tested to increase durability of effects.

X-ray fluoroscopy guided localization and steering of miniature robots using virtual reality enhancement

In developing medical interventions using untethered milli- and microrobots, ensuring safety and effectiveness relies on robust methods for real-time robot detection, tracking, and precise localization within the body. The inherent non-transparency of human tissues significantly challenges these efforts, as traditional imaging systems like fluoroscopy often lack crucial anatomical details, potentially compromising intervention safety and efficacy. To address this technological gap, in this study, we build a virtual reality environment housing an exact digital replica (digital twin) of the operational workspace and a robot avatar. We synchronize the virtual and real workspaces and continuously send the robot position data derived from the image stream into the digital twin with short average delay time around 20–25 ms. This allows the operator to steer the robot by tracking its avatar within the digital twin with near real-time temporal resolution. We demonstrate the feasibility of this approach with millirobots steered in confined phantoms. Our concept demonstration herein can pave the way for not only improved procedural safety by complementing fluoroscopic guidance with virtual reality enhancement, but also provides a platform for incorporating various additional real-time derivative data, e.g., instantaneous robot velocity, intraoperative physiological data obtained from the patient, e.g., blood flow rate, and pre-operative physical simulation models, e.g., periodic body motions, to further refine robot control capacity.

Worldwide burden of retinoblastoma from 1990-2021

Introduction: To report the global, regional, and national burden of retinoblastoma between 1990 and 2021, by age, sex, and sociodemographic index (SDI). Methods: We leveraged the Global Burden of Disease 2021 Study to elucidate the epidemiological landscape of retinoblastoma, encompassing prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) across 204 nations and territories spanning the period from 1990 to 2021. The SDI was employed to evaluate the interplay between socio-economic development and the burden of retinoblastoma. Results: In 2021, global estimates unveiled 57,333 prevalent cases of retinoblastoma, yielding 6,274 incident cases, 2,762 deaths, and 243,204 DALYs. Globally, the age-standardized prevalence, incidence, mortality, and DALY rates for retinoblastoma in 2021 were 0.86, 0.09, 0.04, and 3.65 per 100,000 population, respectively. Tokelau, Kenya, and Portugal demonstrated the highest age-standardized prevalence and incidence rates of retinoblastoma in 2021. The global prevalence of retinoblastoma peaks among children aged 2 to 4 years and subsequently declines with increasing age. At the regional level, the correlation between SDI and age-standardized prevalence rates for retinoblastoma manifested a V-shaped pattern. Conclusions: This comprehensive examination of retinoblastoma epidemiological trends underscores the imperative for heightened vigilance and more efficacious therapeutic interventions, especially within resource-limited environments. The findings accentuate the need for targeted strategies to address the disparate burden of retinoblastoma across diverse socioeconomic landscapes.